Yes — you can get a work permit in Serbia without a university degree. Serbia offers work opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers, especially in sectors facing labor shortages such as construction, manufacturing, hospitality, agriculture, and services. What matters most is having a valid job offer, relevant skills, and an employer willing to sponsor your work permit.

Types of Jobs Available Without a Degree

Serbia’s economy relies on several industries that do not require higher education. Many employers are actively hiring foreign workers for:

• Construction and maintenance (laborers, electricians, welders, painters)

• Manufacturing and production (machine operators, factory workers)

• Hospitality and tourism (waiters, cooks, kitchen helpers, cleaners)

• Logistics and transport (drivers, warehouse staff)

• Agriculture and seasonal work (farmhands, pickers, packers)

If you have practical skills or experience, you stand a good chance of finding employment even without formal qualifications.

Basic Requirements for a Work Permit in Serbia

To work legally in Serbia, every foreigner must hold a work permit and temporary residence permit. The main requirements include:

• A valid passport (with at least six months of validity)

• A job offer or employment contract from a Serbian employer

• Proof of accommodation in Serbia

• Health insurance (private or employer-provided)

• Clean criminal record certificate from your home country

A degree is not mandatory unless the position requires specific professional licensing (for example, doctors, engineers, or teachers).

Types of Work Permits

1. Personal Work Permit – For foreigners who already have permanent residence or refugee status in Serbia. It allows them to work freely for any employer.

2. Work Permit for Employment – Issued to foreigners who have a job offer from a Serbian employer. The company applies for this permit on the worker’s behalf.

3. Work Permit for Special Cases – For seasonal workers, foreign company transfers, or project-based assignments.

Most foreign workers without degrees fall under the second category — the employer-sponsored work permit.

How to Apply for a Work Permit

1. Secure a Job Offer: The employer must be registered in Serbia and willing to sponsor your permit.

2. Apply for Temporary Residence: Submit your application at the local police or Serbian embassy.

3. Employer Submits Work Permit Request: Within 90 days of obtaining residence approval.

4. Receive Work Authorization: Once approved, you can legally start working in Serbia.

The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 days, depending on documentation and workload at immigration offices.

Duration and Renewal

• Work permits are generally issued for one year and can be renewed annually.

• If you maintain continuous employment, you may later apply for permanent residency after five years of living in Serbia.

Average Salaries for Non-Degree Jobs

Wages for jobs that do not require a degree vary based on industry:

• Hospitality and tourism: €700–€1,200/month

• Construction: €800–€1,400/month

• Manufacturing: €900–€1,500/month

• Logistics and transport: €900–€1,600/month

While salaries may be lower than in Western Europe, Serbia offers low living costs, making it easier to save money.

Tips to Improve Your Chances

• Learn basic Serbian phrases — it helps during interviews and at work.

• Highlight hands-on experience instead of formal education.

• Obtain any vocational or trade certificates that can strengthen your CV.

• Be ready to work hard and adapt — reliability and teamwork are highly valued in Serbian workplaces.